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Diabetic neuropathy is a complication of type 1 Diabetes. It is most commonly among type 1 diabetics with poorly controlled blood glucose levels, but can also develop in long term diabetics with well-controlled blood glucose levels. The exact etiology of diabetic neuropathy remains unknown, but research suggests that damage to the vasa nervorum, tiny blood vessels that supply the nerves, plays a pivotal role.
Diabetic neuropathy expresses symptoms that differ depending upon the group of nerves affected. The most common type of diabetic neuropathy affects peripheral nerves and causes numbness or tingling in the hands or feet. The pain or loss of feeling can extend into the arms and legs. The tingling sensation ranges from a mild prickling to the feeling that person has stepped on a tack or needle. Although these sensations are uncomfortable and can be debilitating, the complete loss of sensation is more problematic. Without feeling in the extremities, patients can suffer burns of cuts and not recognize the danger until significant damage has been done.
When the neuropathy damages the autonomic nerves, the heart, lungs, digestive system and sexual organs are affected. Symptoms of autonomic neuropathy include blood pressure issues, changes in bowel or bladder control, lack of sexual response, or digestive issues. In severe cases the stomach fails to recognize the presence of food and fails to secrete digestive enzymes.
A third type of diabetic neuropathy affects a single nerve or nerve group. Known as focal neuropathy, it can affect any nerve in the body. Third nerve palsy is a common example. In third nerve palsy, a single nerve controlling a particular movement of the eye is affected. The result is a loss of ability to move the eye in a certain direction. This condition typically lasts for only one to six months and corrects itself.
Careful control of blood sugar levels is the only way to avoid diabetic neuropathy, and it may develop over time even with careful control. Although diagnoses are made based on symptoms, nerve conduction studies can document the progression or stasis of damage. Treatment is limited to pain control and prevention of additional nerve damage by better blood glucose control.
Tricyclic or other antidepressants are FDA-approved for the treatment of diabetic neuropathy, as are certain anticonvulsants and opioids. These treatments require a prescription. OTC treatment with capsaicin cream is beneficial for some patients, and several studies have shown that alpha-lipoic acid and evening primrose oil supplements can be effective treatments. Researchers are currently investigating electric nerve stimulation as a treatment option.
What else can I help you with?
Does diabetic neuropathy treatment have any risks?
The treatment plan for diabetic neuropathy depends on your symptoms and the type of neuropathy that you have. Treatment focuses on reducing current symptoms and preventing the condition from getting worse.
What is the standard treatment protocol for diabetic neuropathy?
Often, oral medications are prescribed to treat diabetic neuropathy. These medications can include anti-depressants. Duloxetine and pregabalin are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration specifically for treating painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy
Is diabetic neuropathy painful for a cat?
Yes, diabetic neuropathy can be painful for cats. It is a condition that affects the nerves and can cause discomfort, pain, and weakness in the affected areas.
What is the code for diabetic peripheral neuropathy?
250.60 and 357.2
Why would someone have diabetic neuropathy?
A person may have diabetic neuropathy because their high blood sugar causes damage to nerves. This can be temporary or permanent, depending on the extent and scale of damage.
How common is diabetic neuropathy?
The longer a person has diabetes, the more likely the development of one or more forms of neuropathy. Approximately 60-70% of patients with diabetes have neuropathy
What is the Icd9 code for diabetic neuropathy?
250.40 583.81 607.84
Diabetic Socks?
Diabetic socks can increase circulation to the feet and prevent diabetic neuropathy. They also protect the feet from further nerve damage or pain.
is alpha lipoic acid good for neuropathy?
Its ability to kill free radicals may help people with diabetic peripheral neuropathy
Can WebMD tell me about diabetic neuropathy symptoms?
Yes WebMD can tell you about diabetic neuropathy symptoms. WebMD provides all types of information about medical diseases. The best way to find out about a disease is to go to the doctor.
What is the recommended diet for treatment and/or prevention of diabetic neuropathy?
The best way to prevent diabetic neuropathy is to maintain a healthy diet and work closely with your doctor at keeping blood sugar levels under strict control.
What are the symptoms of diabetic neuropathy?
Diabetic neuropathy is nerve damage that occurs as a result of diabetes. Primary diabetic neuropathy symptoms include a tingling or burning sensation in the extremities, numbness in feet and toes, pain while walking, muscle weakness and sensitivity to touch.
